The Niger State Police Command has arrested three salesgirls in connection with the theft of goods worth N29 million from a phone and electronics shop at the Obasanjo Complex in Minna.
The suspects, identified as Sarah Ogbonna (23), Ruth Emmanuel (23), and Mercy Ogbonna (30), were accused of stealing expensive phones and selling them cheaply through an accomplice, Nurudeen Musa (32).
According to police investigations, the prime suspect, Sarah Ogbonna, admitted to stealing the phones and using part of the proceeds to address family issues, contribute to a money-saving scheme, and even rent a furnished apartment for her boyfriend, who is currently on the run.
Police Statement
Confirming the arrests, Niger State Police spokesperson, DSP Wasiu Abiodun, said the case was reported by the shop owner after noticing missing items.
“Sarah confessed to the crime, though she claimed she was unaware the stolen goods had amounted to N29 million. N700,000 was recovered from her immediately,” Abiodun stated.
Her confession led to the arrest of her sister, Mercy Ogbonna, as well as fellow salesgirl Ruth Emmanuel and dealer Nurudeen Musa.
Findings From Investigation
- Sarah allegedly transferred money to her elder sister, Mercy, to help cover house rent, food, and family expenses.
- Ruth Emmanuel, also a former salesgirl at the shop, was implicated in some of the thefts.
- Musa reportedly sold stolen phones at giveaway prices, providing incomplete payments over time.
- Sarah allegedly spent part of the stolen funds on furnishing a house for her boyfriend and invested N150,000 weekly in an online contribution scheme.
Recovered Items
From Sarah, the police recovered:
- Two power generators
- One smart TV and one freezer
- Four wigs valued at ₦500,000 each
- Shoes, bags, canvas, gas cylinder, furniture, and clothing items
DSP Abiodun added that investigations are still ongoing, while efforts are being made to track down Sarah’s boyfriend, Samuel Abiodun Bello, who is currently at large.
